Car Shipping Companies for your Auto Shipping Needs

Need to ship your car?

Whether you’re completing a household move or just need to move your car from point A to point B, there are plenty of car shipping options to choose from. But first, let’s walk through the basics about auto shipping, including the types of auto shippers, cost, transit time, and more.

Car Shipping 101

Note: U-Pack® specializes in moving household goods, and we’re not equipped to ship automobiles. Even so, we often have customers who need to ship a vehicle with their move. The information below is designed to help answer your auto shipping-related questions.

Vehicle shipping - broker and carrier?

In the car shipping world, there are two types of shippers: brokers and carriers. Carriers own their own equipment, employ their own drivers, and work directly with the customer. Brokers don’t own their equipment or employ their own drivers – they operate as the middle man, arranging vehicle transportation between the customer and the carrier.

Whether you choose to go directly through the carrier or use a broker, it’s a good idea to ensure you’re dealing with the right people. That means looking at reviews from other customers (check the BBB or transportreviews.com), reviewing the “fine print” of the terms and conditions, talking with the broker or carrier directly for shipping quotes and information, and ensuring the carrier transporting your vehicle operates with a valid Motor Carrier Number (MC Number), is bonded, and insured.

How much does auto shipping cost?

It depends on a few different factors, such as:

The carrier you choose. Not all carriers will cost the same price for your locations.

Who does U-Pack recommend for shipping vehicles?

Since U-Pack doesn’t ship vehicles, we refer our customers to uShip. When getting a quote, enter what kind of car you’re shipping, where you’re shipping to and from, and uShip will give you a list of auto shipping companies and their prices.

Is auto shipping insurance included in the cost?

It depends on the carrier. In most cases, insurance is included to cover any damage the carrier makes during transit. However, we recommend not only comparing the insurance provided by each carrier (verify their insurance certificate with the DOT at safersys.org), but checking with your own vehicle insurance provider to see what’s covered while your vehicle ships to your new location.

How far in advance should I book my vehicle shipping?

Typically, the earlier you can book your shipment, the better. By booking in advance, you can help ensure you get the best scheduling possible.

How long will it take to ship my car?

Most auto shippers provide an estimated transit time that depends on the distance between your locations. If you opt for guaranteed delivery (if available and usually it’s an extra cost), they’ll make sure your vehicle arrives exactly when you need it.

I need to ship my motorcycle, too.

If you also own a motorcycle, dirt bike, or ATV, you can move those items with U-Pack, along with the rest of your household goods. All you have to do is drain the fluids (flammable liquids are on the Do Not Ship list). Read more about how to move a motorcycle with U-Pack, or get a free quote to see how much it’ll cost to ship your household goods, including your motorcycle.

Tips for a successful auto shipping experience

Take pictures of your vehicle before you ship it – inside and out – in case there’s damage (major or minor) upon delivery.

Customer Reviews

Every step of the way went smoothly. Friendly, competent, professionsls. I had “special requests” and they accommodated every one without hesitation. Communication was excellent, (an aspect so often missing in other situations).